Chesapeake Utilities Invests $500,000 in Community Safety for Florida's Space Coast Emergency Training

### Enhancing Community Safety through Strategic Investment

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation, through its subsidiary Florida City Gas, commits to a significant sponsorship aimed at bolstering community safety in Florida's Space Coast. The company announces a $500,000 investment to support the Rockledge Department of Safety Regional Training Center. This funding is earmarked to improve safety, emergency preparedness, and community engagement, reflecting the company's dedication to enhancing public service and fostering partnerships with local responders. The funds will be disbursed in five annual installments of $100,000 from 2026 to 2030, signifying a long-term commitment to the initiative.

Florida City Gas prioritizes safety and emergency preparedness as foundational values. The investment highlights the company's proactive approach to ensuring that local first responders are well-equipped to handle critical incidents efficiently. William Haffecke, assistant vice president of Florida operations, reinforces this commitment by emphasizing the importance of raising the bar for local safety protocols through continuous training and community engagement. This funding not only improves the capabilities of local emergency services but also strengthens community resilience in facing potential emergencies.

The Rockledge Department of Safety, led by Director and Police Chief Christopher Crawford, integrates advanced training methodologies within its offerings. The established facilities at the Regional Training Center feature cutting-edge equipment such as training towers for scenario-based drills and natural gas leak simulators. These resources allow first responders from various departments—police, fire, and emergency medical services—to train collaboratively. Chesapeake Utilities and Florida City Gas expect that this partnership with the City of Rockledge will cultivate a more prepared and coordinated emergency response framework in the region.

In addition to improving training facilities, this investment signals Chesapeake Utilities’ ongoing commitment to community welfare and safety. By aligning its operational goals with local needs, the company enhances its role as a vital member of the community. The strategic initiative not only elevates the training standards for local responders but also encourages public engagement in safety initiatives, creating a collective responsibility for community well-being.

This endeavor positions Chesapeake Utilities as a leader in community engagement within the utility sector. By fostering strong relationships with local departments and investing in essential training resources, the company not only safeguards its operational interests but also contributes significantly to the safety and preparedness of the communities it serves. Through these efforts, Chesapeake Utilities reinforces its core values and positions itself for a sustainable future aligned with the evolving needs of its service regions.